Feb 27 I Shoot Rockstars

Based out of Chicago, I shoot Rockstars is a collaborative between photographer Kyle LaMere and Make-up artist Elizabeth Neish. Kyle who is a trained graphic designer turned photographer, found an instantaneous creative connection with Elizabeth after meeting at a photo shoot early last year. He decided to implement the fundamental ideas of graphic design and apply them to his photography and together they created the concept and motto that "anyone and everyone can be a rock star" therefore their work stretches past just shooting bands.

What are your inspirations?
My childhood-I was lucky to grow up in a neighborhood that was flooded with other kids my age. It's always nice to think back and remember the time when all I cared about was which Ninja Turtle I would be for the day and I like to pay tribute to that in my work.

I'm very much inspired by my friends who continue to inspire me through the work they do and music of course is the backbone to everything that inspires me.Favorite projects?
Our first shoot with the candy backdrop will always be a favorite of mine. It was the first shoot Lizz and I worked on together as a team and all the preparation leading up the the shoot was a blast. I also recently had the opportunity to work with one of my favorite design firms, Firebelly. We collaborated with them on a community project that reached out to transgender women of color. It was an exciting shoot and great project to work on overall.

Favorite photographers?
David LaChapelle-The way he can incorporate lust, fear, love, nightmares, addiction and dreams into a single photo astounds me.

I was also recently introduced to Eugenio Recuenco's work. I was blown away by his high concept photography. His use of color and dark mood is unreal.

Favorite websites?
I have the usual daily routine. First, I start off in Gmail. Then I move onto Digg.com. After I've read every article, I'll log onto Twitter and Facebook. Then I'll visit Pitchforkmedia.com for the latest music news. I follow it up with jpgmag.com. I love the community they have. It's a great site to get inspiration from other photographers.

Favorite rockstars?
Billy Corgan and David Bowie. I'm a huge fan of rock stars who have that larger-than-life persona. I've been a huge Smashing Pumpkins fan since I can remember and Billy has always inspired me. Even though he's not the most well-liked guy in rock, I've always respected his no "bullshit" attitude. David Bowie is also one of the rare artistic individuals that throughout his career, has greatly influenced the fashion of rock.What would be a dream project for you?
The last question gave it away. Definitely having a shoot with Billy Corgan or Bowie would be my dream.

Plans for 2009?
Lizz and I just wrapped up our first year working together. We've had a chance to collaborate with some of our favorite local musicians and design firms and plan to take that to the next level in 2009. We are in the midst of planning our first showcase in May where we hope to attract local artists, bands and any industry professionals that would be interested in working with us. We'll be having the showcase at the E.P. Theater (http://www.eptheater.com/) in Pilsen, a south side neighborhood of Chicago on May 1st.